Divergent Microfactories Blade, world’s first 3D printed supercar?

San Francisco-based Divergent Microfactories has shown a revolutionary 3D printed car called the Blade. It’s being dubbed as the world’s first 3D printed supercar.

The Blade showcases an innovative and futuristic manufacturing process, the basis of which are 3D printed aluminium ‘Node’ joints, which connect printed carbon fibre tubes together to form the structural cradle. 3D printed carbon fibre panels form the swoopy and organic-looking body, with a kerb weight of just 635kg.

The supercar is powered by a CNG-capable four-cylinder engine (presumably turbocharged to within an inch of its life), belting out 521kW, with a claimed 0-100km/h time around the 2.0 seconds mark.

This is a different approach to Local Motors’ Strati, which was a 3D printed monocoque. Both of these are examples of a future where low-volume manufacturing becomes more attainable, and large stamping equipment and tooling costs become redundant.

Divergent Microfactories is looking to raise US$10 million to build a plant, which is a fraction of the price of a normal vehicle factory. The plan is then to sell this formula to budding entrepreneurs looking to raise the same amount.

3D printing, and streamlined simplification of the car assembly process, heralds promise of enticing many aspiring designers and manufacturers into an arena currently monopolised by juggernauts.

With a more clement legislative environment, we might even see some Aussie entrepreneurs throw their hat into the ring at some point too. Head over to the Divergent Microfactories website for more info.

Mitchell was a contributing journalist and features writer at PerformanceDrive. He has been a passionate petrol-head from a very young age. He is excited by the future of the industry, and considers himself as a bit of a fanatic when it comes to the technical aspects of cars. He is also fascinated by new cars that are popping up in developing markets.